Local Author Launches Children's Book on Jamaica Bay's Ancient History

NEW YORK — A new children’s book exploring the prehistoric past of Jamaica Bay, featuring a horseshoe crab who witnesses the extinction of dinosaurs, has been launched by local Cross Bay Boulevard author Dr. Evelyn Reed. Crab's Comet Adventure, released in November 2026, aims to educate young readers about local ecology and deep time history.

Dr. Reed, a marine biologist by training and a resident of Howard Beach for over two decades, announced the book's availability at a special reading event at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center. Her work connects ancient history with the familiar local landscape of Queens.

Bringing Prehistory to Queens Children

The book follows the journey of a young horseshoe crab, protagonist ‘Shelly,’ who wakes up shortly after the asteroid impact that led to the dinosaurs’ demise. Shelly navigates a changing world, learning about resilience and the interconnectedness of life on Earth. Dr. Reed’s narrative weaves scientific facts into an engaging, age-appropriate story.

“I wanted to show children that the ground beneath their feet in Queens has an incredible, ancient story,” Dr. Reed told the audience of excited children and parents. “Horseshoe crabs are living fossils, connecting us directly to those deep times, and they’re right here in Jamaica Bay.” She explained the extensive research involved in depicting accurate prehistoric ecosystems.

Illustrations by local artist Leo Maxwell, who also grew up near Cross Bay Boulevard, bring Shelly’s world to life with vibrant depictions of ancient marine environments and early life forms. The book includes a glossary of scientific terms and a section on the importance of protecting Jamaica Bay’s current ecosystem.

Connecting Local Ecology and Education

Crab's Comet Adventure is already gaining traction among local educators. Several elementary schools in Districts 23 and 27 have expressed interest in incorporating the book into their science curricula for 2027. Teachers see it as a valuable tool for local environmental education.

“It’s a fantastic way to introduce complex scientific concepts through a relatable, local lens,” said Sarah Jenkins, a fourth-grade teacher at P.S. 207 in Rockwood Park. “Children are always fascinated by dinosaurs, and tying it back to Jamaica Bay makes it incredibly relevant for them.” She plans to use it during her unit on local wildlife.

The Queens Public Library system has ordered copies for all its branches, including the popular Peninsula Branch, just a short walk from Cross Bay Boulevard. They anticipate strong demand from families seeking educational and locally relevant stories. Discover more about Queens Community Board 10 initiatives supporting local arts.

Author's Vision for Community Engagement

Dr. Reed plans a series of workshops and readings throughout Queens in 2027, focusing on schools and community centers. She hopes to inspire a new generation of environmental stewards and scientists from the Cross Bay area.

Her commitment extends to advocating for the preservation of Jamaica Bay’s unique biodiversity, including the very horseshoe crabs that inspired her book. She regularly participates in local conservation efforts and awareness campaigns, often seen volunteering at beach cleanups along the bay shore.

“Our natural spaces like Jamaica Bay are not just pretty places; they are living laboratories and historical archives,” Dr. Reed emphasized. “This book is a love letter to that history and a call to action for its future.” She encourages families to visit the Wildlife Refuge, located just minutes from Cross Bay Boulevard, to experience it firsthand.

Impact on Local Arts and Science Community

The success of Crab's Comet Adventure also highlights the burgeoning creative talent within the Cross Bay Boulevard corridor and wider Queens community. It showcases how local narratives can bridge global scientific concepts with specific neighborhood relevance.

Local bookstores, including The Astoria Bookshop, have featured the title prominently, reporting strong initial sales. The book has garnered positive reviews from local parenting magazines and environmental science journals, praising its accessibility and educational value.

This project serves as a beacon for aspiring local authors and scientists, demonstrating the power of storytelling to engage and inform. The book is available at local independent bookstores and online retailers across the city. Further details on local literary events can be found through the Cross Bay Boulevard Business Improvement District.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crab's Comet Adventure

What is Crab's Comet Adventure about? The book tells the story of a horseshoe crab waking up after the dinosaur-killing asteroid impact, exploring ancient Earth and themes of resilience. Who wrote the book? Dr. Evelyn Reed, a marine biologist and long-time resident of Cross Bay Boulevard, is the author. Where can I find the book? It's available at local Queens bookstores, the Queens Public Library, and online retailers. Is the book suitable for all ages? While primarily aimed at children aged 6-10, its engaging story and scientific content can appeal to a broader audience. How does the book connect to Cross Bay Boulevard? The author is a local resident, and the story’s setting (Jamaica Bay) is a significant natural landmark accessible from Cross Bay Boulevard. Does the book have an environmental message? Yes, it subtly promotes environmental stewardship and highlights the importance of preserving local ecosystems like Jamaica Bay.